Topic Time

The idea of "Topic Time" was inspired by Bob Dylan's "Theme Time Radio Hour" on XM Radio in the USA which itself was inspired by a similar theme related show in the US in the 1940s starring Woody Guthrie and Alan Lomax as resident compères.

The general thrust of the show is to take a subject and then play songs in a variety of genres and over the whole historical spectrum of 100 years of recorded music. Around the music there could be a poem, a guest or just general information on the subject.

The American shows have a national flavour and my idea was to bring in some local aspects for a local radio station. For example, one show was entitled "Sea, Ships & Sailors" and I invited a Norfolk man who was in the Royal Navy for a good number of years to chat about his experiences.

Another show, "St. Valentine's", mentioned "Snatch Valentine" or "Valentines Eve" which is for children and, as far as I am aware, only occurs in Norfolk (and maybe parts of Suffolk). Another topic, "Food" included a recipe for Norfolk Dumplings – and so on.

Something about myself

I was born in Caister-On-Sea, Norfolk – but have also lived in other Norfolk areas such as Great Yarmouth, Norwich and Hethel.Main occupation: English Teacher to speakers of other languages overseas and in UK including University posts teaching EAP (English for Academic Purposes) but also teaching within the state education system at home at both primary and secondary level.

Interests

Music, Cinema, Literature, Sport, Travel